The first educational talk of 2025, titled "Exploring the Path to Mind-Body Balance Through Calligraphy," was held on February 22 at the Buddha’s Light Centre in Markham. Organized by the Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Templeof Toronto Social and Educational Department and the Buddha's LightInternational Association (BLIA) Toronto Markham subchapter, the event featured Mr. Henry Ho, an experienced calligraphy artist, as the guest speaker. Nearly 60 calligraphy enthusiasts attended the talk, which explored the relationship between calligraphy, Tai Chi, and the Five Elements (Metal, Wood, Water, Fire,Earth), emphasizing the practice of calligraphy, Tai Qi cultivation, and mental focus.

The event commenced with an opening speech by Venerable Ru Sing, the Guiding Monastic of the BLIA Toronto Markham subchapter, who welcomed Henry and shared the deeper significance of calligraphy in Buddhist practice. Venerable Ru Sing highlighted the story of the founder of Fo Guang Shan, Venerable Master HsingYun, and his iconic "One-stroke Calligraphy." Despite challenges with his vision and trembling hands, Venerable Master continued his calligraphy practice with the "mind's eye," demonstrating perseverance and the spirit of giving. This story served as an inspiration for the audience, encouraging them to cultivate inner awareness and dedication in their spiritual practice.

With over forty years of experience in both calligraphy and Tai Chi, Henry Ho provided an insightful and accessible explanation of Five Elements Calligraphy. He elaborated on how the Five Elements correspond to different organs in the human body, illustrating how mindful breathing and brushwork canhelp practitioners achieve harmony between mind and body. He emphasized that Five Elements Calligraphy is not just an artistic expression but also a methodfor fostering physical and mental well-being.

During the talk, Henry demonstrated his technique live, incorporating Tai Chi-inspired movements into his brushstrokes to showcase the fluidity and harmony of his art. Participants were invited to engage in exercises that combined mindful breathing with brushwork, experiencing first hand the principle of "movement within stillness, stillness within movement."

Teresia Tang, President of the BLIA Toronto Markham subchapter, noted that the talk enriched the community’s educational programs while offering participants a deeper understanding of the integration of calligraphy andholistic well-being. Venerable Ru An, Director of the FGS Toronto Social and Educational Department, expressed gratitude to Henry for his dedication and passion, announcing that he would serve as the instructor for an upcoming Five Elements Calligraphy class. As a token of appreciation, representing the Temple, Venerable Ru An presented Henry with a copy of Venerable Master HsingYun’s book, 365 Days for Travelers.